Blepharitis Treatment From Your Optometrist In Redding, CA
Blepharitis is an eyelid inflammation. Unfortunately, in its early stages, many patients mistakenly attribute it to symptoms of eye strain from too much time on the computer or lack of sleep. Our Redding, CA, doctor of optometry diagnoses this disorder, which has many treatment options, during a comprehensive eye exam at Redding Eyecare Center.
What is Blepharitis?
Although this disorder is usually not contagious, it can be difficult to treat. A typical blepharitis case involves inflammation in both eyelids where lashes grow. Its cause is clogging of oil glands near the base of these eyelashes.
Blepharitis is a chronic condition with several potential factors that could contribute to clogging:
- Rosacea
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Allergies
- Malfunctioning or blocked oil glands
- Eyelash lice or mites
- Bacteria-caused infectio
Patients who visit our optometry practice appear with a range of complaints, especially the below symptoms:
- Grittiness
- Burning
- Stinging
- Watery eye
Less common are crusty lashes when awakening, greasy lids, and skin flakes around the eyes. Some individuals report sticky eyelids, light sensitivity, or an increase in blinking frequency. In other cases, eyelashes grow abnormally or disappear.
Treatment from Our Optometry Practice
Relief from blepharitis symptoms begins with a complete eye exam by our optometrist. The focus of treatment is keeping the patient’s eyelids from crusting. We recommend the best option based on the type of inflammation present, such as if you have Staphylococcal, Seborrheic, Ulcerative, or Meibomian blepharitis. The primary therapy for a bacterial cause is an antibiotic.
When not treated promptly, the inflammation can make it difficult to wear contacts. It might also result in the formation of a chalazion and possible scarring of the affected eyelid.
Our practice stresses effective home care to control annoying symptoms. Self-care might include a combination of warm compresses and scrubbing lids gently with diluted baby shampoo or a special cleanser.
Our optometrist may also recommend:
- Avoiding the use of contact lenses during treatment
- Massaging affected eyelids
- Shampooing hair with an anti-dandruff product
- Steering clear of eye makeup while being treated
- Applying artificial tears or prescribed lubricant
Schedule an Exam with Our Redding, CA, Optometrist
The goal of our Redding, CA, optometrist, Dr. Michael Young, is getting you eye care when you need it. Redding Eyecare Center is a full-service optometry practice, so whether you need treatment for a disorder such as blepharitis, seek corrective eyewear, or suffer from the symptoms of eye diseases like glaucoma, we can help. Vision is precious. Help protect yours by calling us today at (530) 222-1233 to schedule an eye exam.